Speculation that the characters might signal a relaxing of the tight controls surrounding Western influences in North Korea was supported by the official Korean Central News agency, which stated the new leader had a “grandiose plan to bring a dramatic turn in the field of literature and arts this year”.

There was added intrigue to the Disney bonanza, in the shape of the young woman pictured next to Kim Jong-un who clapped for the colourful characters.

Many believe the mystery woman who has been pictured next to Kim Jong-un at a number of events is either his sister or his partner

The mysterious young woman was seen next to the North Korean leader again on Sunday, in footage broadcast at the 18th anniversary of the death of North Korea founder Kim Il Sung, the new leader's grandfather.

However if the watching world believes North Korea is loosening it controls on the impoverished nation, or signalling a softening of its international relations, Kim Yong-un's new "theme song" sends out a strong socialist message.

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Called "Onwards Toward the Final Victory" is intended as a "powerful trumpet call of the revolution encouraging the army and people in the drive to build a thriving nation as well as a stirring drumbeat of victory" Hong Kwang Sun, vice-minister of culture, told KCNA, according to the Guardian.

Grainy shots of rocket launchers, North Korean mountains, and depictions of industry are phased in time with a rousing anthem.